Treatment for Uterine Wall Thickening

The uterus, an important part of the female reproductive system, prepares itself for pregnancy by undergoing cyclical changes every month. The tissue that lines the inner surface of the uterus, called the "endometrium" in medical terms, thickens during the menstrual cycle and is naturally expelled from the body if pregnancy does not occur. However, in some cases, the uterine wall can thicken abnormally due to hormonal imbalances or various health problems. This can lead to different gynecological problems over time.

What is Uterine Wall Thickening?

Uterine wall thickening is the condition in which the endometrium layer thickens abnormally and the body cannot remove this extra tissue. This disorder, known medically as “endometrial hyperplasia”, is particularly associated with hormonal imbalances, changes experienced during the premenopausal period, and some metabolic diseases. If this condition is not controlled in a timely manner, it can lead to problems such as abnormal bleeding and in some cases, increase the risk of uterine cancer.

Causes of Uterine Wall Thickening

There are many factors that can cause abnormal thickening of the uterine wall. These include:

• Hormonal Imbalances: The hormone estrogen triggers the thickening of the uterine wall. However, insufficient secretion of the hormone progesterone can prevent the natural shedding of this tissue and cause permanent thickening.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This can cause the uterine lining to accumulate due to irregular ovulation.
• Pre-Menopausal Changes: A decrease in progesterone levels in women approaching menopause can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia.
• Diabetes and Obesity: Metabolic diseases such as being overweight and diabetes can disrupt hormone levels and pave the way for thickening of the uterine wall.
• Ovarian Cysts: This can cause uncontrolled estrogen production and lead to unwanted changes in the uterine wall.

Symptoms of Uterine Wall Thickening

Uterine wall thickening usually manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• Menstrual irregularities: Menstrual bleeding lasting longer than normal or occurring at frequent intervals.
• Bleeding between periods: Irregular vaginal bleeding outside of menstrual periods, especially after menopause.
• Painful menstrual periods: Severe pain and cramps in the groin area.
• Dark or brown vaginal discharge.

If one or more of the above symptoms are experienced regularly, a gynecologist and obstetrician should be consulted without delay.

 

How Is Uterine Wall Thickening Diagnosed?

 

How is Uterine Wall Thickening Diagnosed?

The following methods are generally used to diagnose uterine wall thickening:

• Ultrasound: This is the first method used to evaluate the structure of the uterine lining.
• Biopsy: A sample is taken from the endometrium tissue to examine whether there are cancer cells.
• Hysteroscopy: This is a minimally invasive technique used to directly observe the inside of the uterus.

These diagnostic methods allow the level of the disease and possible risk factors to be determined.

What is Good for Uterine Wall Thickening?

Here are some lifestyle changes that can help prevent or control uterine wall thickening:

• Balanced diet and weight control: Obesity can cause the uterine wall to thicken by increasing estrogen levels. Adopting a healthy diet can reduce the risk.
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can positively affect uterine health by maintaining hormonal balance.
• Use of medication under the supervision of a doctor: Progesterone-containing medications, which regulate hormonal balance, can be prescribed to control uterine wall thickening.

These measures can prevent the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms.

How is Uterine Wall Thickening Treated?

Treatment of uterine wall thickening is shaped according to the patient's general health status, age, fertility plans and severity of the disease. The treatment methods that can be applied are as follows:

1. Drug Treatment:
Progesterone supplements can prevent excessive uterine wall growth. Birth control medications may be recommended to eliminate hormonal imbalances.

2. Surgical Intervention:
Hysteroscopic Curettage: It involves scraping off the inner layer of the uterus.

Hysterectomy: If the uterine wall thickening has reached a level that can lead to cancer, the uterus may need to be removed.

Which of these methods will be applied is determined according to the patient's general health status and the doctor's recommendations.